First of all "Thanks" for all the great information that people have posted.
My family and I ( Wife and two children 11 & 13) are planning our first trip to Bonaire. We are looking for accommodations that will fit our needs and budget. We are flying from western Canada and as long as there is a grass hut with a micro wave we're good to go!
Our budget is around $2500.00 for two weeks accommodations. Can we get something more than a grass hut? Ideally what we would like is place with most amenities,Kictchenette,throwing distance to a sandy beach and walk in shore snorkeling for the kids to enjoy without us looking over our shoulder every 5 seconds.
I've looked at some of the hotels and Inns that are mentioned but when I check their room rates it is definitely out of our budget. I'm hoping that someone knows of a location maybe a little off the beaten path and more affordable that would work for us. This will certainly be the most fascinating trip our family has ever taken and we can't wait to get a bad case of the wrinkles! Best Regards,
Mike & Debbie

http://www.goldenreefinn.com/rates.html


http://www.roomerbonaire.com/


For your budget you need to look away from the water.

You might also consider renting a house. There are many reasonable rentals a short distance from the shore.

Hi Bonnie,
Do you know of any homes or a good place to start looking?

Try some of the vacation rentals by owner sites: www.vrbo.com
www.greatrentals.com
www.vacationsfrbo.com

There are others, just do a search for "vacation rentals by owner".

That was a good idea Bonnie and Thanks for the links Martha. There are some great places on there and we're thinking that for us that would be a better way to go.
I just have to decide now is where on the island would be best place to set up camp and if we need the expense of renting a vehicle. We are walkers and bikers but to really discover the island I'm getting the feeling that transportation is a must.Does anyone have any suggestions on that. Much appreciated.
Best Regards, Mike

I rented 2 bungalows here:
http://www.bonairebungalows.com/

Close to town and beaches.
You can prepare your own meals.
Sometimes they have cheap cars available too.